Difficulty: Easy | Yields: 4 servings
Inspired by Mexican street corn (elote), this dish features juicy charred corn topped with a punchy lime aioli, crumbled cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder. It’s tangy, smoky, and perfect for summer gatherings or a fun weeknight side. Ideal for BBQs, taco nights, or as a bold starter.
📜 Why This Works
“Because corn is even better with a little char and a lot of flavor.”
Charring brings out the natural sugars in corn, giving it a smoky-sweet backbone. The lime aioli adds creamy tang, while cotija lends a salty punch. Chili powder gives it heat, and fresh cilantro brings it all to life.
Ingredients for Charred Corn with Lime Aioli & Cotija Crumble
☑️ 4 ears fresh corn, husked
☑️ 1 tbsp olive oil
☑️ ¼ cup mayonnaise
☑️ Juice + zest of 1 lime
☑️ ½ tsp garlic powder
☑️ ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as a sub)
☑️ ½ tsp chili powder or smoked paprika
☑️ Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish
☑️ Lime wedges for serving
👩🍳 How to Make It Charred Corn with Lime Aioli & Cotija Crumble
🔥 Step 1: Char the Corn
1️⃣ Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Brush corn with olive oil and grill, turning occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until lightly charred.
🍋 Step 2: Make the Lime Aioli
1️⃣ In a bowl, mix mayo, lime juice, zest, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
2️⃣ Taste and adjust with extra lime if desired.
🌽 Step 3: Dress & Serve
1️⃣ Brush hot corn with lime aioli.
2️⃣ Sprinkle with crumbled cotija and chili powder.
3️⃣ Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
💖 Why You’ll Love It
☑️ A crowd-pleaser that bursts with flavor
☑️ Easy to make, fun to eat
☑️ Great vegetarian option for outdoor parties
☑️ Brings gourmet flair to a humble vegetable
“It’s smoky, creamy, tangy—and wildly addictive.”
🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Truffle Honey Glazed Duck Breast You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
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